Missing Ben Nevis couple search halted due to 'hazardous weather'

High winds, limited visibility, snow and sub-zero temperatures mean operation will not resume until Monday at the earliest

Tim Newton and Rachel Slater have been missing since Monday (PA)

The rescue operation to find two climbers missing in the Scottish Highlands has been suspended due to “hazardous weather”.

A team of 26 people have been searching for 24-year-old Rachel Slater and 27-year-old Tim Newton, who went missing while climbing Ben Nevis.

High winds, limited visibility, snow and sub-zero temperatures halted the search for the couple - who have been missing for a week.

Police Scotland said: "The weather today was very poor with high winds, falling snow, limited visibility and a considerable risk of avalanches.

"Sadly, there were no positive sightings today and searches have been suspended for tomorrow (Sunday) due to increasingly hazardous weather and further risk of avalanches.

"Reviews continue to be ongoing and it is hoped that there will be an improvement to the conditions on Monday or Tuesday.

"Both Rachel and Tim's family continue to be appraised of these circumstances."

It is understood the couple contacted police themselves on Saturday evening, but no other details are known.

The search is expected to resume once weather conditions improve.